Dareu Sky V4 vs. Gazzew U4Tx RGB
An in-depth look at the Dareu Sky V4 and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the Dareu Sky V4 and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB mechanical keyboard switches, users will find distinct advantages tailored to their typing preferences. The Dareu Sky V4, featuring cutting-edge POK material in its top housing, offers a smooth linear experience characterized by a deeper sound signature. This makes it an excellent choice for those who appreciate a more subdued yet satisfying auditory feedback while typing, making every keystroke feel fluid and effortless. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches provide a delightful tactile experience with their pronounced bump, combining a refined "thocky" bottom-out sound with a quieter topping-out phase. This makes the U4Tx RGB ideal for users who enjoy the sensation of tactile feedback and want a richer acoustic profile that strikes a balance between performance and sound aesthetics. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POK
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Housing materials
When comparing the Dareu Sky V4 and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB, we first look at their top housing materials. The Sky V4 utilizes POK, or polyketone, which boasts a very low coefficient of friction at 0.04, resulting in smoothness that is superior to many other switch materials. Its impressive durability and resistance to wear coupled with its ability to provide a clacky sound make it an excellent choice for high-performance switches. Conversely, the U4Tx RGB is constructed from a proprietary Gazzew blend, often referred to as "boba plastic." While specifics on friction are not provided, this blend is known for its softness, contributing to a rich sound profile that is distinctively deeper. While these materials offer different tactile experiences, both are designed to facilitate a satisfying switching action; thus, users can expect smooth operation from both switches, albeit with different aural qualities.
In examining the bottom housing of each switch, we find that the Dareu Sky V4 employs nylon, a well-established material in the keyboard community known for its ability to absorb sound and create a fuller auditory profile. The U4Tx RGB also features the Gazzew blend for its bottom housing, affirming its commitment to delivering that soft, enriched sound. In both switches, the bottom housing primarily influences the sound and feeling upon bottoming out, adding depth to the overall typing experience. Although the Sky V4 utilizes nylon, which offers a well-understood performance characteristic, the Gazzew variant claims a similar objective in sound production thanks to its design, indicating that sound quality remains a central focus for both.
Both switch designs showcase a combination of top and bottom housings, each contributing to the overall performance of the switches in unique ways. The Dareu Sky V4's combination of POK and nylon results in a smooth and robust typing experience, while the Gazzew U4Tx RGB combines its proprietary materials to achieve a rich auditory profile. While the materials differ in composition, they share common goals of sound amplification and tactility. The differences in their structures will create variations in the sound signature and feel, but overall, users can enjoy a fulfilling and pleasurable typing experience with either switch by leveraging the respective strengths of their housing materials. Ultimately, those looking for nuanced sound profiles may prefer one over the other based on personal preference.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch, notable differences in their actuation and bottom-out forces emerge, affecting user experience based on preference. The Sky V4 requires a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it easier to press, while the U4Tx RGB does not have a specified actuation force, which leaves it unclear but implies a different, potentially heavier feel during operation. In terms of bottom-out force, the Sky V4 reaches 55 grams, while the U4Tx RGB has a heavier bottom-out force of 65 grams. This distinction indicates that the Sky V4 is a lighter switch overall, catering to those who prefer less strain for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the U4Tx RGB, with its medium-heavy characteristics, is better suited for users who seek a more substantial feel under their fingers, offering feedback that some typists and gamers might find satisfying. Thus, those who want a lighter touch should gravitate toward the Sky V4, while those desiring a heavier response may prefer the U4Tx RGB.
Travel distance
The Dareu Sky V4 linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch both feature a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making them equal in this regard. This means that users can expect a similar experience when pressing down on keys equipped with either switch, as both require the same amount of downward movement to register a keypress. Consequently, those seeking a consistent feel in their typing experience will be pleased with either option, as they provide the same travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Sky V4 has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sky V4 for $4.76.
The Gazzew U4Tx RGB comes in at $6.50 per 10 switches.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
When it comes to sound, the Dareu Sky V4 switch produces a notably thocky profile characterized by a deep, rich tone, giving a satisfying auditory feedback that resonates with each keystroke. Its low-pitched sound signature results in a mellow typing experience that can be particularly enjoyable for typists who appreciate a bass-heavy tone. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switch features a more muted sound that minimizes the typical clack associated with mechanical keyboards. This switch also offers a distinct bassiness, providing a refined auditory experience due to its combination of stealthy topping out and the deeper sound of bottoming out. Both switches deliver rich acoustics, but while the Sky V4 leans into a pronounced thock, the U4Tx RGB offers a quieter yet still satisfying sound.
As for the feel, the Sky V4's linear action is designed to provide a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke, making it ideal for those who prefer a clean typing experience without tactile bumps. In contrast, the U4Tx RGB presents a luxurious fusion of tactile feedback and smoothness, featuring a sharp tactile bump that enhances the overall typing experience. This tactile sensation can be particularly satisfying for typists seeking a more engaged and responsive feel with each keystroke. Therefore, if you appreciate a straightforward linear feel, the Sky V4 will serve you well, while those desiring tactile feedback will find the U4Tx RGB more suited to their preferences.
In summary, the Dareu Sky V4 and Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches offer distinct yet appealing sound signatures and tactile experiences. The Sky V4 stands out with its deep, thocky acoustics and smooth linear action, while the U4Tx RGB provides a muted sound profile enriched by a pronounced tactile bump. Each switch addresses different user preferences, making them both excellent options depending on whether you prioritize sound depth or tactile responsiveness in your mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch ultimately hinges on your personal typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you favor a smoother typing experience with a lighter touch, the Sky V4’s medium-light actuation force and its thocky, low-pitched sound profile can enhance your daily tasks, whether for casual typing or extensive gaming sessions. The switch's POK material not only provides durability but also delivers a rich auditory experience that can be immensely satisfying. On the other hand, if you appreciate tactile feedback along with a bit more resistance — perfect for precision tasks and programming — the U4Tx RGB should be your go-to option. Its medium-heavy actuation provides a more deliberate feel, combined with a sharp tactile bump that enhances the typing experience. This switch also excels in stealthiness with a muted but fundamentally deep sound, making it suitable for quieter environments like an office. Therefore, your decision should reflect your priority on either smoothness and speed with the Sky V4 or tactility and a more substantial feel with the U4Tx RGB.